Horse Jockey

A Horse Jockey is someone that races the horse at the racetrack. Depending on the Horse Jockey some also do their own training. Most only work as a jockey racing the horse on race day. Horse Jockey's must be lightweight with a small body frame, this helps to increase the speed of the horse since a heavy weighted person will usually slow the horse down while they are racing by having to carry extra weight. The Horse Jockey will warm a horse up on race day, and then enter the start gate prior to the race. The job of the day is to ensure that the horse races to its safest fullest potential while trying to out race the other horses racing. The Horse Jockey usually races Thoroughbred's or Quarter Horses. A Horse Jockey must be willing to start the day early, work long hours, and travel since they usually race all over the country.

A Horse Jockey must be physically fit, at least 18 years of age, and have been employed and licensed as an exercise rider at a racetrack for a period of at least one year. A two-year degree in Equine Sciences is very beneficial along with prior riding experience since a rider will be riding a horse traveling speeds of 35-40 miles per hour. The Horse Jockey will also have to practice as an Apprentice Jockey and get their license. Upon receipt of an Apprentice Jockey license (s)he must race before an official steward to prove that they can race, and they must also be very knowledgeable about the rules of racing. Upon the completion of the first year, they can become

Journeymen or Journeywomen.

The average income will vary but it is usually $30,000 per year. The Jockey receives ten percent of the purse money, and they set a price for each ride that they make. Benefits are usually not provided, as a Jockey is usually independent and self-employed.